The Choir of Man - Paul McArthur Interview

The Olivier Award-nominated, worldwide smash — now in its third singsational year in the West End!

Welcome to THE CHOIR OF MAN, the best pub in the world... Come ready to drink in the excitement!
An uplifting celebration of community and friendship where everyone is welcome. It's 90 minutes of feel-good, foot-stomping entertainment unlike anything else in the West End.

Paul McArthur as The Poet. Photo by Mark Douet

Brimming with hits from artists such as Queen, Luther Vandross, Sia, Paul Simon, Adele, Guns & Roses, Avicii and Katy Perry to name but a few, this is a pub like no other! A wildly talented group of incredible instrumentalists, world-class wordsmiths, and sensational singers; this cast of nine (extra)ordinary guys serve it all... live!

The production is set to close at London's Arts Theatre on January 4th 2026. 

We sat down with cast member Paul McArthur, who plays The Poet, to discus the show further.

What can you tell me about Choir of Man and how your role as the Poet fits in?
The poet is the narrator of the show. He breaks what’s left of the fourth wall after the audience have been allowed into the immersive world of the pub, mingled with the cast, had a pint on stage with us, and tells you quite openly from the get go ‘We’re not here to tell you a story’ - rather, presents you the permission to have fun and get involved!
 
What first attracted you to the show?
Besides the incredible music and arrangements, I saw myself in the role of the poet the very first time I saw the show. I think that is what is so amazing about the cast and their characters in that you can see yourself, or someone you know in each of the archetypes. Also I had been singing and working in pubs for about 10 years, so it felt like home. 
 
The show begins with the on-stage real life pub, how nice is it for you to get to break the fourth wall and interact with audiences from the get go?
It’s amazing! I love getting to find out about people’s stories, how many times they’ve seen the show, who they’ve brought along this time, where they are from etc. 

It’s a really nice energy to start the show with.

Paul McArthur and the Company. Photo by Mark Douet.

How do you mentally and physically prepare for a show?
We have a mandatory set vocal and physical warm up before every show that we do as a cast that gets us in the zone, but also serves as a bit of a check in with everyone. That, and lots of water!
 
As The Poet, you get to bring in your own personal stories to the role, how wonderful is that to get the share these?
The Home Speeches are my favourite part of the show because of exactly that, and it’s an honour to bring everyone’s truth to the audience every night. 
In telling ours, we often relate to theirs which is such a beautiful thing to look out and experience together.
 
If you were visiting The Jungle (or any other drinking establishment) what would be your drink of choice?
Boring answer - I’m a beer guy, so a simple pint of lager will do me fine. 
 
Have you had any on stage mishaps during your run in the show?
I’ve been quite lucky thankfully! But there’s always a spilled beer somewhere to look out for that keeps you on your toes.
 
Music is a key component of any pub but what would be your go to karaoke song of choice?
I hate Karaoke, and actively avoid it at all costs!
(But if you pulled my leg, anything Prince)
 
What have been the highlights of your time in the show so far?
Getting to share the stage with so many previous cast members from so many different productions as emergency covers due to sickness/holiday has been super special. All with a shared love for the show and realm of Choir Of Man. It’s like a weird brotherhood. 
 
What is the best pub snack?
Easy - Scampi Fries. 
 
What was the first piece of theatre you saw which had a big impact on you?
Billy Elliot was the first thing I ever saw in London when I first moved down to study, and absolutely loved it!

The cast of The Choir Of Man. Photo by Mark Douet.

What keeps you inspired?
Music, live gigs, and live theatre. Any time you’re running a bit low and need some inspiration, seeing something live always helps. 

Additionally, all the stories that the audience share after having seen the show always inspire you.
Even if you haven’t necessarily done your ‘best’ show, it means the world to know you’ve made someone’s day, and that the show and it’s message is so much bigger than us actors on the stage. 
 
What would you hope an audience member takes away from seeing the show?
Whatever they need to. There are so many lovely messages and moments to take from Choir Of Man, and I think that’s why so many people come multiple times. 

But I hope they leave with a pint, packet of crisps, coaster and a full heart!

The Choir Of Man continues at London's Arts Theatre until Sunday 4th January 2026. For tickets and more information visit https://www.choirofmanwestend.com/